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Department

Nuclear Medicine & Molecular Imaging

Nuclear medicine focuses on diagnosing and treating cancer and other diseases using radioactive substances.

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Advanced Precision Diagnostics. Utilizing state-of-the-art technology since 1954.

AK
Message from the Head of Department

Dr. Ashok Kumar

MD, DNB, FEBNM, RSO • Consultant & HOD, Department of Nuclear Medicine
“As the Head of the Department of Nuclear Medicine, I carry forward a legacy that began in 1957 when our founding pioneer, Dr. V.M. Sivaramakrishnan, established one of India's first nuclear medicine centers. Today, we honor that vision by combining our six decades of experience with cutting-edge molecular imaging and therapeutic technologies. Our department stands at the unique intersection of physics, chemistry, and medicine—using the power of radiopharmaceuticals to see what others cannot see and treat what others cannot reach. Every nuclear medicine scan, every radionuclide therapy, and every diagnostic procedure we perform is driven by one commitment: to provide our patients with the most accurate diagnosis and effective treatment possible. I am privileged to lead a dedicated team of physicians, physicists, and technologists who work tirelessly to ensure that each patient receives personalized, evidence-based care with compassion and dignity.”
About the Department

Department Overview

Nuclear medicine focuses on diagnosing and treating cancer and other diseases using radioactive substances.

Nuclear medicine is a specialized branch of radiology using small amounts of radioactive materials, or radiopharmaceuticals, to diagnose, manage, and treat various diseases, including cancer and heart disease, by evaluating molecular and physiological function. It offers early detection of illnesses by imaging internal bodily processes rather than just anatomy, with procedures like PET and SPECT scans.

The department helps in initial diagnosis and staging of cancers, treatment planning and response assessment. It provides theranostic services for the treatment of thyroid cancer, prostate cancer, and neuroendocrine tumors, as well as diagnostic services for evaluation of organ function.

What to Expect During Your Visit

Understanding your imaging procedure — a simple guide for patients and families

1

Before Your Scan

Your referring doctor will explain which imaging test is needed. Some scans require fasting or specific preparation — our team will provide clear instructions when you schedule.

2

During the Procedure

Most imaging tests are painless and non-invasive. You may need to lie still for a few minutes while the scanner captures images. Our technologists ensure your comfort throughout.

3

After Your Scan

Our radiologists analyze your images and prepare a detailed report for your treating doctor. Results are typically available within 24-48 hours.

For Clinicians

Diagnostic Services & Techniques

PET & Molecular Imaging
  • PET-CT Scan (F-18 FDG) – Detects cancer spread throughout the body and monitors treatment response, molecular guided biopsy
  • SPECT Imaging – Provides three-dimensional functional imaging of organs
Bone & Organ Scans
  • Bone Scan (Tc-99m) – Identifies bone metastases and skeletal abnormalities
  • Thyroid Scan (I-131) – Evaluates thyroid function and detects thyroid cancer
  • Hepatobiliary Scan (Tc-99m) – Assesses liver and bile duct function
  • Renal Scan (Tc-99m DTPA/MAG3) – Evaluates kidney function and urinary tract
Specialized Scans
  • Gamma Camera Imaging – Visualizes organ function and tumor localization
  • Cardiac Imaging – Assesses heart function before chemotherapy
  • Lymphoscintigraphy – Maps lymphatic drainage for surgical planning
  • Tumor Markers with Radionuclides – Detects specific cancer types using targeted tracers
Treatment Capabilities

Therapeutic Services

Radioiodine Therapy (I-131)

Treatment for thyroid cancer and hyperthyroidism.

PRRT (Peptide Receptor Radionuclide Therapy)

Targeted therapy for neuroendocrine tumors.

Radium-223 Therapy

Treatment for bone metastases in prostate cancer.

Lu-177 PSMA Therapy

Advanced treatment for metastatic prostate cancer.

Samarium-153 Therapy

Pain relief from widespread bone metastases.

Selective Internal Radiation Therapy (SIRT)

Targeted liver cancer treatment.

Radiosynovectomy

Relief of joint pain from cancer.

Our Technology

Equipment & Technology

Gamma Camera

SPECT imaging for nuclear medicine diagnostics and organ function evaluation.

PET-CT Scanner

State-of-the-art molecular imaging for cancer staging and response assessment.

Advanced Imaging

Gamma Probe

Intraoperative detection of sentinel lymph nodes and radioactive lesions.

Gamma Ray Spectroscopy

Advanced radiation measurement and quality assurance equipment.

Radiation Protection Equipment

Multiple radiation protection devices ensuring safety of patients, staff, and visitors.

Precision Theranostics Facility

Dedicated suite for targeted radionuclide therapy procedures.

Meet the Team

Our Experts

RK

Dr. R. Krishnakumar

Professor, Department of Nuclear Medicine

AK

Dr. Ashok Kumar

Consultant & HOD, Department of Nuclear Medicine

Our Heritage

Legacy & History

1957
Department established under the visionary leadership of Dr. V.M. Sivaramakrishnan — operations began even before the Atomic Energy Establishment at Trombay started their Isotope Division.
Early years
Imported radioactive iodine and radioactive gold from Harwell, United Kingdom, and routinely used them for diagnosis and treatment before national isotope supply began in 1961.
Dr. Sivaramakrishnan initiated major research programs involving various radioisotopes with chelating agents to study metabolic pathways in biological systems.
The department has witnessed the evolution from simple radioisotope applications to sophisticated molecular imaging and advanced targeted radionuclide therapies.
Trained generations of nuclear medicine physicians and technologists who now serve across India and beyond.
Milestones

Key Achievements

Community

Support Groups

Content is yet to be provided

Refer a Patient

Our imaging services are available upon referral from treating physicians

nuclearmedicine@cancerinstituteadyar.org

For referring physicians: When ordering imaging, please include clinical history, suspected diagnosis, and specific imaging requirements to help our radiologists provide the most accurate interpretation.